Methylene Blue: A Non-Hormonal Aid for Menopausal Women

Menopause can be a challenging time for some of us. One of the most common complaints is fatigue, which can leave us feeling like we need to make a gigantic effort just to get out of bed.

After my podcast interviews with Rowan Sanderson and Dr. John Lieurance, I discovered we have an ally in managing fatigue with a really cool superagent, that may be a lifesaver for those who are seeking non hormonal treatments: methylene blue (MB). This versatile compound has shown promise in alleviating fatigue as well as a few other menopausal concerns.

History of Methylene Blue

Methylene blue was first synthesized in 1876 by German chemist Heinrich Caro at BASF (a German multinational chemical company) in Ludwigshafen, Germany. Initially developed as a textile dye, it quickly gained popularity in the industry for its vibrant blue color. This squelched my hopes that MB was blue, because of spirulina or some natural compound. This is completely chemical, ladies.

In the 1890s, researchers began exploring its potential medical applications. Paul Ehrlich, a German physician and Nobel laureate, discovered its effectiveness against malaria parasites, marking the first use of a synthetic substance to cure an infectious disease. It’s like the first drug ever!

Throughout the 20th century, MB found various medical uses, including treating psychosis in the late 19th century, serving as an antimalarial during World Wars I and II, and being identified as an antidote to carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning in 1933. Today, methylene blue is recognized as a versatile compound with applications in medicine, biology, and chemistry, and is included on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines.

Benefits of Methylene Blue for Menopausal Women

Methylene blue’s antioxidant properties may help alleviate menopausal symptoms by reducing oxidative stress typically experienced during this period. Here are some key benefits:

1. Hot Flash Relief: Studies suggest that MB can reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes by affecting levels of serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain.

2. Cognitive Function: MB has potential neuroprotective effects that could contribute to maintaining cognitive function in aging women.

3. Mood Improvement: As a potential antidepressant, MB may help manage the emotional symptoms associated with menopause.

4. Energy Boost: MB can improve mitochondrial function, potentially increasing overall energy levels.

5. Hormonal Balance: Initial studies suggest that MB may play a role in regulating hormonal imbalances often experienced by women throughout their lives.

6. Anti-viral and Anti-Microbial: MB’s antiviral and antimicrobial activities make it a promising candidate for various therapeutic applications, including the management of viral infections and as a potential treatment for drug-resistant bacteria.

How to Use Methylene Blue

Here’s the protocol I use for using methylene blue:

1. Start with 20 drops and gradually increase to half your weight in kilograms and continue to take over 2-3 months depending on how you feel.

2. Week 1: Take 20 drops in the morning.

3. Week 2: Add 10 drops in the afternoon (20 AM, 10 PM).

4. Week 3: Increase to 20 drops twice daily (20 AM, 20 PM).

5. Week 4: Take 25 drops twice daily (25 AM, 25 PM).

6. Continue until you reach half your body weight in drops for 1% of MB or as recommended by your health practitioner

7. Avoid taking MB after 5:00 PM to prevent sleep disturbances.

To prepare the MB solution:

1. Order MB online from a reputable source. I get mine from CZTL

2. Mix 1 vial (1 gram) of 1% MB into 100ml of water.

3. Transfer the mixture to a small dark vial with a dropper.

4. Administer drops directly onto the back of the tongue or mix with water.

5. Alternatively, you can also order MB from MitoZen (use discount code ZORA) and follow the instructions as indicated on the box. I have also heard great reviews for Just Blue

Note: MB can stain easily. To remove blue stains from your tongue, roll a non-gel vitamin C capsule around your mouth.

Safety Considerations

While methylene blue shows promise, it’s important to note that it is not FDA-approved for treating menopausal symptoms. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications.

The average dosing of methylene blue is 0.5-4mg/kg, with anything above 5mg/kg considered toxic. Low doses (10-30mg daily) typically offer the best therapeutic effects, but optimal dosage is highly individualized.

Contraindications

1. Hypersensitivity: Individuals with severe hypersensitivity reactions to methylene blue or any other thiazine dye should not use it.

2. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency: Patients with G6PD deficiency should avoid methylene blue due to the risk of hemolytic anemia.

3. Severe renal impairment: Methylene blue is contraindicated in patients with severe renal insufficiency.

4. Pregnancy: The FDA has assigned methylene blue a pregnancy class X rating due to the risk of intestinal atresia and fetal death, particularly in the second trimester.

Who Should Not Take Methylene Blue

1. Pregnant women: Due to the potential risks to the fetus, pregnant women should not use methylene blue.

2. Patients with Heinz body anemia: Methylene blue is relatively contraindicated in these patients.

3. Individuals taking certain medications: Caution should be exercised when using methylene blue in combination with drugs that may interact, such as serotonergic agents, due to the risk of serotonin toxicity. If you’re on an SSRI, MB is not for you.

4. Neonates: They are particularly prone to adverse effects of methylene blue, including hyperbilirubinemia, methemoglobin formation, and respiratory distress.

5. Patients undergoing pulse oximetry monitoring: Methylene blue can interfere with pulse oximeter readings, resulting in falsely depressed oxygen saturation readings

In conclusion, methylene blue presents an intriguing option for women seeking relief from menopausal symptoms. Its potential benefits in managing hot flashes, improving cognitive function, and boosting energy levels make it a compound worth exploring under proper medical supervision. As research continues, we may uncover even more ways in which this versatile substance can support women’s health during the menopausal transition.